''Across the age spectrum there are some mistaken beliefs that there are positive aspects to eating disorders - that it's socially acceptable, that what they are doing is admirable or desirable, that they might be strong-willed or that the symptoms are acceptable,'' she said.

Ms Gold presented her research at the Australian Psychological Society Conference in Perth late last month.

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She has recently surveyed 470 students aged 15 to 17 from Melbourne to verify the findings of her research and to identify what messages would increase the likelihood of people seeking treatment for conditions including anorexia and bulimia.

''A number of studies have identified [these attitudes] in different parts of the community. [My research] will give us more information. Some studies found it was as high as 30 per cent but the methodology is all over the place. We really want to know what that age group think because it's a high risk group - it's the time these kinds of disorders usually emerge.''

According to the Victorian Centre of Excellence in Eating Disorders, one in 20 Australian women admits to having suffered from an eating disorder, while 25 per cent know someone who has an eating disorder.

Ms Gold said despite public awareness of eating disorders, some people quoted in the studies she reviewed, which were conducted in Australia over the past three decades, characterised sufferers as ''overly vain'' and ''attention-seeking''.

''Having those kinds of negative or stigmatising attitudes towards people with those disorders means they are less likely to take someone presenting with those symptoms of an eating disorder as seriously, and it means they are less likely to get help, to get appropriate treatment and recover.''

Ms Gold said the proliferation of websites and blogs carrying tips on how to live a ''semi-rexic'' or ''part-time bulimic'' lifestyle was a big concern.

■ Help with an eating disorder can be found by calling 1800 497 333 or visitingpsychology.org.au.